Beer and Brawls

April 12th 1912

Nighttime

Fabrizio turned to Helga, "We dance?" he asked over the loud music, holding out his hand for her to grab. She smiled and nodded, taking it. Fabrizio pulled her into a quick dance, joining the other couples on the dance floor. Soon, they were lost in the crowd. I immediately began biting my lip as an awkward silence settled between Tommy and I.

He seemed perfectly content though, and pulled out a new cigarette, lighting it up, "Care for a smoke?" he asked, offering a cigarette to me.

I shook my head, "A nasty habit I don't care to obtain."

"Right you are," Tommy shrugged, taking a few drags. He said something else but I didn't hear. It was lost in the noise of the music and talking.

"What?" I asked.

Tommy leaned closer to my ear, "Can I get you a drink, Emily?" he asked.

I nodded and Tommy left, leaving me in the center of the room. I pulled a chair up to one of the round wood tables, watching Helga and Fabrizio dance. They moved with the other dancers, everyone running into each other and stepping on their partners toes. It was really too crowded to dance but no one seemed to mind, so long as they were having a good time. Tommy returned seconds later. He handed me an ice cold glass of beer, drinking down his own. The cool drink was nice in the stifling room.

I felt a finger tap me on my shoulder. Looking down, I saw curly haired Cora at my side, "Where's Jack?" she asked over the noise.

I leaned down to answer her, "Sorry Cora, he's not here tonight. I'll let you know you were looking for him, okay?"

Cora nodded, though still looking disappointed.

"You're welcome to sit with me?" I offered.

Cora smiled, "I'm okay," she said simply and walked off, going to join her father and mother. I raised an eyebrow at being turned down by an eight year old girl.

Next to me, Tommy roared with laughter, "It's obvious who her favorite is," he said.

I shot Tommy a dirty look, "Jack is everyone's favorite," I teased, taking a long drink of beer.

"How about it?" Tommy asked, indicating to the center of the room, "Would you like to dance?"

I raised my eyebrow, "I can't guarantee I won't step on your foot," I replied.

Tommy grinned, the cigarette between his teeth and his eyes bright with mischief, "I'll take my chances," he replied gently, taking my hand in his.

I shook my head as Tommy pulled me out of my chair and led me to where the rest of the couples were. With one hand in mine, he wrapped the other around my waist with a firm hold, pulling me closer to him. We slipped in with the other dancers, moving to the beat. Tommy and I danced in a mangled mess of feet and bodies. I was sure well looked about as graceful as new born foals. I laughed at the idea. As Tommy pulled me around in another tight circle, I stepped on his foot, like I only predicted. Tommy only chuckled, brushing it off, and we continued dancing. I could feel Tommy's eyes on me as I watched our footing, careful not to injure my dance partner further.

When the song ended, Tommy and I made our way back to the table, feeling dizzy an light headed. Helga and Fabrizio came and joined us seconds after, both panting and grinning from ear to ear. We sat at our table, talking over the noise of the crowded general room.

Another dance started up, this time for the women. A group of girls took over the dance floor. Helga took my hand and together, we joined them on the platform. We all joined hands, turning in a large circle to the music, while the men stepped off to watch. We all brought our hands into the center, then back out again, turning the other way. We then wove in and out of each other, locking our arms together and spinning in different directions. I glanced at Fabrizio and Tommy through the crowd, who were both clapping to the beat. Tommy grinned at me.

Helga and I held up our hands in a arch for some women to weave under. I looked up towards the stairs, spotting Jack coming down the steps to the general room. I immediately perked up, only to be crestfallen right after. Following behind him was Rose, looking both nervous and excited, her lips curled in a smile. I dropped my hands. Only when Helga grabbed me again and pulled me back into the dance did I realize I had been staring.

I kept my eyes on them as we danced. I watched them join Tommy and Fabrizio at the table, Jack introducing Rose to his friends. I was happy when the music came to and end. I stepped off the platform, Helga close behind, as a wave of good natured applause rose from the men. I grabbed my half empty glass of beer and finished it off. What was Rose doing in third class and why had Jack brought her here? Jack was supposed to go to dinner then come back to third class without Rose. I grudgingly reminded myself that it didn't matter and that I had agreed to help Rose and Jack be together until Titanic docked.

But still, why did he have to bring her down here? I thought to myself and sighed, grabbing another glass and drinking it down. I could feel my good mood slowly dwindle.

Tommy was watching me, an unreadable expression on his face.

"What?" I asked, catching his eye.

"Nothing," Tommy said with a shrug. He turned to Jack and Rose, quick to introduce himself.

"Tommy Ryan, pleased to make your acquaintance," he said, raising to his feet and taking Rose's hand.

Rose laughed nervously, "And yours."

"Rose, you remember Emily. She was on the stern with me the other night," Jack introduced, indicating to me.

"Right, of course," Rose said sweetly, "How could I forget? Nice to see you again Emily."

Can't very well say the same for you, I thought to myself and toyed with the thought of actually saying it. I settled with something more pleasant and amiable.

"And you, Rose. What brings you down to third class?" I asked, glancing between Rose and Jack. Yes, grandmother would be so proud of that response.

"Oh, well, Jack wanted to introduce me to a real party," she said with a laugh.

Tommy laughed, "Right on boyo!" He replied, slapping Jack on the back before turning to the rest of the group, "I think another round of stout?" he asked.

"Please," I muttered, looking at my empty glass forlornly.

I noticed Cora from across the dance floor, watching us. Quiet as a mouse, she made her way over to Jack. She tugged him on his pant leg and Jack turned to her with a grin. Guessing what she wanted, he asked her for a dance. Cora was quick to say yes. Jack pulled off his jacket and hung it over the back of a chair, removing his neck tie and unbuttoning his collar as well. He pulled Cora onto the dance floor and they moved in with the rest of the dancers.

Tommy arrived with the pints of beer, handing one to Rose. She smiled and took one with a thank you, then took the seat next to mine. I sipped my drink, purposely scooting my chair farther away from hers conspicuously. She didn't seem to notice.

The song ended and a round of cheers went up. Jack leaned down to Cora.

"I'm going to dance with her now, okay?" Jack asked, indicating to Rose, who looked surprised.

"Come on," Jack said, walking over, "Come on, let's dance!"

Rose shook her head, "No Jack! Jack, I can't do this," she objected as Jack pulled her onto the dance floor.

Jack was grinning, "We're going to have to get a little closer," he said, placing a hand on the middle of Rose's back, "Like this," he added, pulling her close. Rose let out a little gasp.

Jack turned to look at Cora, who was pouting at being replaced. I took another drink of the ale.

"You're still my best girl Cora," Jack said and she smiled, scampering off into the crowd.

What was I, chopped liver?

As the music picked up, Jack started leading Rose around in a tight circle.

"Jack! I don't know this dance," Rose said.

"Neither do I, just go with it," Jack replied, "Don't think."

Rose let out another nervous laugh, closing her eyes. They danced around the floor, bumping into other couples. Rose couldn't stop laughing and Jack couldn't stop watching her. Helga and Fabrizio soon joined them. Tommy and I were left at the table. He looked at me, cigarette between his fingers, and laughed at their clumsiness. I frowned, watching Rose. She didn't belong here and I was not trilled with her being here. Jack should have just left her to her tea parties and gossip.

"Don't look so down," Tommy advised, "You can't help but smile at an Irish party."

I glanced at him, "Watch me," I replied.

Tommy frowned. "You're a real pain in the arse right now, you know that?" Tommy snapped and I stuck my tongue out at him. I was acting like child and I knew it.

With a roll of his eye, Tommy put his cigarette in his teeth, picked up his drink and moved to another table; leaving me to sulk.

Jack and Rose took over the dance floor, each showing off their fancy foot work. Rose removed her shoes and tossed them, hiking up her skirts as she moved around.

Rose seemed to be enjoying herself. More than that, she looked elated to be in steerage. I knew why. I knew how boring and mundane it was sometimes, being first class. I had attended the same excruciating parties with my grandmother that she went to too. I had been on the long lunch dates, sat for hours stitching and been to the hot croquet matches. All for what? So society could deem me a woman worthy enough for matrimony? It was madness sugarcoated with money. Even with everything she could ask for, she still wasn't happy. I saw it in her eyes that night she stood on the back of the Titanic and I knew the feeling. It was a secret that tied us together. The only thing that separated us was that I was bold enough to change my fate and take my own corse. Not her, not yet.

Jack and Rose finally moved off the dance floor. I spotted Tommy at a table across the room, locked in a arm wrestle with another man. They were evenly matched, both men straining against the other. Jack reached over them, grabbing for a couple of beers, one of which he handed to Rose.

I watched Tommy bring the other mans arm down a few inches, his arm muscles flexing with the strain. With a loud grunt though, the other man pushed Tommy's hand until the back of it hit the table and knocking over some glasses.

"Shite!" Tommy cursed under his breath, "Two of three!" He tried, going another round.

Rose laughed, "So," she said loudly, reaching over and pulling Tommy's cigarette right from his mouth, making my temper flare, "You think you're such big men? Let's see you do this."

Taking a long drag on Tommy's cigarette, Rose stepped back, looking quite cocky indeed.

"Hold this Jack," Rose instructed, lifting her skirts, "Lift it high."

Jack did as he was told. Showing her stocking feet, Rose assumed a ballet position, her arms in front of her for balance. I watched as she rose up on her feet, higher and higher until all her weight was on only her front toes. Tommy raised his eyebrows, watching in awe. Jack wore a similar expression and I'm sure I did too. It was painful to watch. Rose's ankles wobbled and she fell to the side, right into Jack's arms.

"Are you okay?" Jack asked and Rose laughed.

"I haven't done that in years!" Rose cried. Jack held her there, probably longer than necessary before helping her to her feet. Rose grinned, handing Tommy his cigarette back and replacing her shoes.

I took another sip of beer. Fabrizio walked over, his face red from dancing so much. He grabbed a glass, grinning.

"Having fun?" I asked.

Fabrizio nodded, looking over his shoulder at Helga, who was talking to another woman. She glanced our direction and waved.

Fabrizio looked back at me, "I do not know what she says, she doesnt know what I say, we still get along fine," he replied.

Helga walked over to us, taking Fabrizio's hand and walking away. At least one of us was having a good time. I waved them off, looking over to where Tommy was. He had convinced the other gentleman of another round of arm wrestling and was locked in battle.

With my glass empty, I went to get another one. The room was so crowded, I ended up tripping over more than one person. I caught myself on one of the tables, cursing under my breath. My head was clouded and I felt sluggish. I looked up and I noticed someone at the entrance stairs. It was the rat faced Mr. Lovejoy. I could only guess what the conniving man was up to. I switched directions and instead made my way to Jack and Rose.

"Jack!" I said, interrupting their dance. He looked at me and Rose smiled. I pointed over his shoulder at the direction of the stairs where Mr. Lovejoy was.

"Ah, shit," Jack muttered, turning to Rose, "He's probably here to spy on us, courtesy of your fiancé. We'll stay low until he leaves, then I'll take you back to first class, okay?"

Rose hesitated, then nodded obediently.

"Thank you Emily," Jack said to me, then took Rose's hand and lead her off the dance floor to one of the corners of the room, leaving me to stand alone. I looked at Mr. Lovejoy, who caught my gaze, glared, then went on looking for Jack and Rose.

Remembering my initial quest, I turned to get another stout, weaving in and out of bodies.

I picked up another pint, glancing over to the stairs. Mr. Lovejoy had disappeared and I guessed that Jack and Rose would be leaving at any moment. A man idled up to me, to close for comfort. His breath smelled of stale beer and his red face shone with sweat. I frowned at him and he replied with a stupid smile. I was in no mood to put up with a man who had had one to many drinks.

"Evening there," he slurred, "What's your name darling?"

I frowned, "Emily Cross," I replied curtly, turning on my heel to leave. His meaty hand grabbed hold of my wrist, his grip painfully tight.

"Wait up there darling," he said, stepping closer. He yanked my arm back and I stumbled into him.

"You're drunk," I growled, trying to pull away, "Let me go now."

The man wasn't listening. He grinned stupidly, "Pretty lips, pretty eyes, pretty girl," he mumbled. With his free hand, he reached up and ran his thumb over my bottom lip. I turned my head away from him. He grabbed my chin in his hand and turned me back to face him, pulling me into a rough kiss. I tried to pull back but he just kissed me harder, his other hand still clasped around my wrist.

Angrily, I bit his bottom lip as hard as I could. With a yelp, he pulled back, releasing my wrist. I smirked triumphantly when I noticed a spot of blood oozing from his lip where my teeth had broken skin. The man put his hand to his lips and looked at the blood on his finger. He his flashed threateningly as he turned to me, his hands baling into fists.

"You filthy little slut," the man growled, his face clouding over.

He took a step towards me and I shied away, suddenly feeling not so smug. I backed up into one of the wooden tables, cornered between the table and the drunkard. Just past the mans shoulder, I saw Tommy come up behind him, looking angrier than I had ever seen him. He tapped the man on the shoulder.

"What?" The man barked, turning around. Lifting his fist, Tommy swung and hit him square in the cheek. The mans head snapped to the side and he tumbled over the table and onto to floor, knocked out cold. A few people looked up at the commotion.

"Bastard," Tommy murmured, stepping over the man's body and coming to me, "Are you okay?" he asked, gently putting a hand on my shoulder.

I let out a long sigh of relief.

"Thank you," I said to Tommy and he nodded. I titled my head, studying the man on the floor, "I fear he wont wake for a couple of hours," I said passively. I picked up my pint and made to go back to our table.

"Wait a minute there Emily," Tommy said warningly. I turned to face him and he took the glass from my hand.

I frowned, "Give that back Tommy Ryan," I said.

Tommy raised his eyebrow, "How many have you had?"

I stepped closer to Tommy, standing on my tip toes to make myself taller, "Hardly any. Now give it back," I reached for my glass but Tommy held it above my head. I stretched for it, but only stumbled over myself, putting a hand on Tommy's chest to steady myself.

Tommy chuckled, "You're drunk as a dog."

I felt my face flush, "Dammit I am not!"

"You can barely walk," Tommy pointed out.

"Fine," I challenged, "Then I'll sit," I took a seat on the nearest chair, crossing my arms over my chest stubbornly.

Tommy set the glass of beer down, pulling me up, "Come on, we're going back to your room before you make a bloody fool of yourself."

Tommy led me out of the general room. I glanced over my shoulder to see Fabrizio pull Rose into a line of dancers, who in turn took Jack's hand. They grinned at each other, sheer bliss written on their faces. It was the last thing I saw before they disappeared from sight. Not paying attention to where I was going, I tripped over the steps in the stairwell.

"Careful there," Tommy said, wrapping an arm around my waist to ready me.

"The blasted stairs won't stop moving," I grumbled and I heard Tommy snicker. I just concentrated on getting up the stairs without falling. The cool air on the upper deck felt good and the lack of pounding music and shouting voices did wonders for my head. We moved down to E Deck, Tommy opening the door to my cabin when we finally reached it.

I smiled as I entered, "Oh, bed," I sighed, "I missed you," I climbed up to my bunk and took a seat.

"You're quite entertaining when you're fluthered," Tommy commented.

"I'm not drunk," I insisted.

"Do you want to talk?"

"No."

Tommy sighed and closed the door behind him, climbing up on the bed next to me. We sat with our backs against the wall and our feet stretched out in front of us. Tommy was not a stupid man, he could tell something was wrong with me.

"Why don't you like her?"

"Who?"

"You know who: Rose."

I looked at Tommy. He looked down at me. So he knew exactly what was the matter with me. I chewed my lip, feeling tears in my eyes.

No, I commanded myself, I am not going to do this here, not with Tommy.

"This was supposed to be an adventure for Jack, Fabrizio and I. Jack wasn't supposed to fall in love, especially not with some refined rich girl. I feel like I'm loosing my best friend," I blurted out, unable to stop myself, but managing to keep out the part about my feelings for him. I sighed, whipping my eyes, "It's nothing now," I reassured myself, "When Titanic docks, everything will be back to normal. Jack and Rose will go their separate ways."

"Can you be so sure?" Tommy asked.

I sat up, turning to look at Tommy, "Yes," I said firmly, "Jack and Rose can have their little infatuation so long as it makes them happy but in a few days, this will all be forgotten. I'm sure of it."

Tommy raised his eyebrow, "You're hiding something," he said.

"I'm not hiding anything," I replied.

"I see the way you look at him and there is something more," Tommy said, slowly smoking his cigarette, "What if, when Titanic docks, Rose leaves with Jack, not her fiancé? Then what?"

"Don't say that," I said quietly.

"Do you love him? Jack?" Tommy asked.

I felt the minutes tick away before I answered, "...Yes. I have for a while now."

"And it hurts to watch him be so in love with another person?"

"Yes."

Tommy didn't reply.

I sighed, leaning back against the wall, "Have you ever felt this way before?" I asked, "In love with someone who doesn't love you back?"

It was Tommy's turn to let the minutes pass before he answered, "Yes."

"Was she very pretty?"

"Beautiful," he responded. Something had changed with his tone, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it. I rested my head on his shoulder.

"I suppose we're just two people, with hearts full of love, but none to share it with. Its tragic, really," I sighed, feeling very tired and very sleepy.

"I suppose," was all Tommy said.

The drinks I had finally caught up with me. I closed my eyes and let myself slip into a alcohol induced sleep, using Tommy's shoulder for my pillow and listening to his breathing to relax me. At that moment, I was very grateful for the company I was keeping.